Bellingham Heritage Centre

The Heritage Centre, Bellingham, is the local museum of the North Tyne and Redesdale areas of Northumberland, situated in the former railway station. We have exhibits on the Border Reivers, the Border Counties Railway, mining and farming. The Centre holds the fascinating collection of W P Collier - a local photographer who recorded the history of the area between the two world wars - accessible to visitors by computer. Find out more by listening to our Chatterboxes and dial-up 'Voices from the Past' in an old red GPO telephone box, which shares our central space with the reconstructed historic Stannersburn Smithy, brought alive by video. Our extensive database of local family names and the interactive panel about Reiver families proves popular with visitors from the UK, Europe, USA, Canada and Australasia seeking information about their ancestors. Two railway carriages, recently restored by volunteers, present the only exhibition about the 'Wannie Line and provides interpretation of the nearby stunning walk up Hareshaw burn to the waterfall through the site of an extensive early 19th-century iron foundry - an area of SSSI within Northumberland National Park. To complement your visit, our converted buffet car offers vistors a refreshing and nostalgic 'journey' back to the glorious days of steam and diesel. (Both carriages open March 2012.)We also host visiting exhibitions of historical or artistic interest and stage a series of heritage events throughout the year for different interest groups.

How to obtain

Intro2Bellingham

Free downloadable, image-rich presentation for teachers and group leaders bringing children to the area. Suitable for use by children working independently, in groups or as a class activity. Accompanying notes provide pre-visit activities to help prepare children.

How to obtain

Download from website

Boxes, objects and other kit

Loans boxes

For schools and community groups we have free loans boxes. 'Health and hygiene' is our first. Under development are 'Shopping Around' and 'Growing up'.

How to obtain

Must be pre-booked and collected from the Heritage Centre

Paper-based and downloads

Pupil resources for school visits

For pre-booked groups we provide free activity sheets for different collections. With sufficient notice our Education Officer can work with teachers or group leaders to prepare bespoke materials to support your visit.

How to obtain

These can be emailed to you before your visit to enable you modify them to suit your children's needs and learning styles. Alternatively, contact the Heritage Centre stating how many you require and for which collection, and these will be available on the day of your visit.

Website

E-mail

Telephone

Heritage Centre

01434 220 050

Tourist Information Centre

01434 220 616

All information is drawn from or provided by the venues themselves and every effort is made to ensure it is correct. Please remember to double check opening hours with the venue concerned before making a special visit.